The lights will extend all the way down the street. Picture: David Parry/PA Wire

The opera star ushered in the festive season in Jermyn Street after leading a carol concert in St James’s Church in front of an invited audience.

Two Christmas trees, donated by the Windsor Great Park, have also been installed within the grounds of the church.

Katherine said “It’s a real honour to be asked to turn on the St James’ Christmas Lights.

“The new light design and scheme is fabulous as I’m sure you’ll agree.”

It is the first year that Christmas lights will be displayed along the entire length of Jermyn Street. They will also use the same ‘smart light’ technology deployed by Westminster Council that allows them to be controlled by Apple iPads and other smartphones.

Up at The O2 has teamed up with London24 to give one lucky reader the chance to experience urban mountaineering this summer with an exhilarating 90-minute climb across the roof of one of London’s most iconic landmarks.